Drawing for Humans and Machines Launch Conference

At a time of rapid advance in robotics and AI, and the concern to hold on to what is distinctively human, this conference will explore the relations between humans and machines through drawing. This conference launches the Drawing Centre for Humans and Machines, an initiative of the Schools of Art and Computing at Goldsmiths, University of London, of which we are a partner.

Day 1 — Wednesday 24 June, 09:30–18:45

In the first day, lectures and panels will explore developments in drawing using robots, and the ways in which machines transform the human while sharpening what is unique and contingent about the gesture of the human hand and the mark on a surface in bodily, analogue drawing. Topics also include the ‘machinic’ in the history of 20th century drawing, and how, in the 21st century, AI might itself be a form of drawing beyond the human.

Day 2 — Thursday 25 June, 09:30–18:30

The second day will focus on drawing as potential, in relation to the human body and senses, and opened through working with machines. It will involve a talk, a panel discussion, and a performance-lecture, as well as participatory drawing sessions, robot presentations, and well-being through drawing in a world of digital online stress. How does the doubleness of drawing as schema and trace encounter AI? Could partnerships between human artists and machines through drawing unlock new avenues for creativity that are not extractive and exploitative?

Click here for full daily programme.